International work and assignments have long been integral to business growth, innovation, and talent development. But as global mobility continues to expand, so does the pressure to manage it in a sustainable and responsible way.
Climate change, evolving societal expectations, and stricter ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) goals are pushing organizations to critically assess the impact of international mobility. The question is no longer if we should make mobility more sustainable—but rather how we do it.
Less Flying, Smarter Movement
Let’s start with the most obvious factor: CO₂ emissions from travel. International assignments, frequent business flights, and large-scale relocations all contribute significantly to a company’s carbon footprint. With remote work and virtual collaboration now part of the norm, it’s time to rethink mobility in a more hybrid and intentional way.
Practical ideas:
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Replace monthly flights with longer on-site stays combined with virtual check-ins.
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Promote sustainable transport where possible (e.g., trains within Europe, local electric mobility).
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Introduce a “carbon budget” per role or department to guide travel decisions.
Smarter Relocations: From Excess to Intention
Traditional relocation packages often focus on convenience—everything is moved, furnished, and managed. But that convenience-first mindset increasingly clashes with sustainability objectives.
So how can we make relocations greener?
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Encourage renting or purchasing furniture locally instead of shipping everything across borders.
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Limit shipment volumes to essentials and offer flexible relocation allowances instead.
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Choose eco-conscious partners who use electric vehicles, recycled materials, and offer carbon offsetting.
This isn’t about reducing comfort—it’s about increasing awareness. When employees understand the company’s sustainability mission, relocation becomes part of a shared responsibility.
Ethics and Inclusion in Mobility Policies
Sustainability isn’t just about the environment. Truly sustainable global mobility also includes social and ethical dimensions.
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Ensure equal access to opportunities: Who gets the chance to work abroad? Is mobility inclusive, or limited to a select group?
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Support well-being and integration: Sustainability also means investing in mental health, cultural onboarding, and family support during assignments.
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Engage with local communities: Build partnerships that benefit both the business and the host country.
Measure, Monitor, Improve
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Yet many organizations still lack clear KPIs for sustainable mobility. A new approach requires data, transparency, and courage.
Consider setting up:
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Dashboards that track mobility-related CO₂ emissions;
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ESG reports that include your expat strategy and travel footprint;
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Feedback loops with mobile employees to assess both experience and environmental impact.
It’s Time to Collaborate
The journey toward sustainable global mobility is a shared one. HR, global mobility, travel, procurement, and sustainability teams must align and collaborate. External partners—relocation providers, tax advisors, immigration consultants—also play a vital role in driving progress.
Sustainable global mobility is not a limitation—it’s an opportunity.
An opportunity to reevaluate what’s truly necessary, to guide employees more consciously, and to take accountability as an organization—for both people and the planet.
It may not always be the easiest path, but it’s definitely the right direction.
